Mohamed Salah delivered a decisive stoppage-time goal as Egypt overturned an early deficit to secure a 2-1 victory over Zimbabwe in their opening Group B match at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco.
The seven-time champions dominated possession for long periods but were forced onto the back foot when Zimbabwe took a shock lead against the run of play.
Prince Dube struck in the 20th minute, controlling a cross inside the box, spinning sharply and finishing clinically to hand the Warriors a surprise advantage.
Egypt waste chances before Marmoush responds
Egypt pushed hard for an equaliser, with Salah and Omar Marmoush central to most of their attacking play.
However, profligacy in front of goal and a series of impressive saves from 40-year-old goalkeeper Washington Arubi allowed Zimbabwe to protect their lead until the interval.
The breakthrough eventually came in the 64th minute when Marmoush drove in from the left flank and smashed a powerful effort into the roof of the net from a tight angle, dragging Egypt level and tilting the contest firmly in their favour.
Salah seals comeback in stoppage time
With Egypt piling on the pressure and Zimbabwe retreating deeper, the match appeared to be heading for a draw.
But in stoppage time, Salah showed his trademark composure and awareness, reacting quickest to a loose ball in the penalty area and forcing it past Arubi to secure all three points.
The late winner spared Egypt an uncomfortable start to their AFCON campaign and underlined Salah’s enduring influence as the Pharaohs chase a record-extending eighth continental title.
Egypt face South Africa next in Group B, while Zimbabwe turn their attention to a clash with Angola.